Former Boston Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon needs to face reality

It would be easy to think that Jonathan Papelbon had retired years ago. The former Boston Red Sox closer is on the Hall of Fame ballot after all, and has even received a vote for induction. He had faded away from the public eye since his claim years ago that he would decide on a new team within days six years ago.

But that is not the case. According to Papelbon, he has not retired and never will. His reason? The fact that maybe, at some point in the future, he could take some pill and feel as though he is 25 years old again. Seriously.

Former Boston Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon living in delusion

Maybe Papelbon had a chance to return to the majors back in 2016 when he claimed that he would choose which team he would sign with within a couple of days. While his performance was not up to his usual standards, his 4.37 ERA with a 1.457 WHiP in 35 innings was not terrible.

But that ship has sailed. No one is picking up the phone to call a 41 year old reliever that has not pitched in six years. Teams may be desperate for relief pitching these days, but they are not that desperate.

And maybe Papelbon is correct and they can invent some pill that will make him feel like he is 25 years old again. Jose Canseco probably has a few ideas about substances that could help with that. Even if he does not, the two could discuss their odd little beliefs and delusional worlds with Bigfoot and a few aliens joining in.

Some players bow out gracefully, leaving when their bodies tell them it is time. Others stick around for too long, hoping to recapture that glory even when it is painfully obvious that their skills have faded away. Then there are others who are dragged out that door kicking and screaming, refusing to acknowledge what everyone else can see. Papelbon is firmly in that latter category.

Former Boston Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon is refusing to retire. Someone should let him know that denial is not just a river in Egypt.